Sandro del Prete
Studies of an Impossible Topographic Distrortion
![](../../../../images/art/delprete/the-master-of-illusions/160.jpg)
This blueprint depicts an impossible monastery fortress. When the ladder is
drawn in, the fortress seems to become impregnable. In the initial draft,
the monastery hangs over a deep abyss and is secured by a single nail, while
the supporting columns and foundation are resting on a parchment scroll, which
symbolizes intellectual insight. A three-dimensional object is presented in a
two-dimensional way, projecting itself into the fourth dimension. Here, none of the
concepts of direction apply, because a change in direction implies movement, and
movement presupposes time.
![](../../../../images/art/delprete/the-master-of-illusions/161.jpg)